(04-12-23) MOGADISHU (HN) – A Somali student has shed light on the plight of Somali youth in Russia and Belarus, particularly focusing on their forced conscription into the Russian army, in a distressing revelation from Belarus. This alarming development, stressing the vulnerability of Somali immigrants amid geopolitical tensions, was reported to Kulmiye Radio in Mogadishu on Monday.
“The most distressing aspect is the forced induction of eight Somali youths into the Russian military,” the student disclosed. “These individuals are expected to engage in combat and are slated for deployment to Ukraine.”
Speaking from Belarus, the student provided a grim overview: “We are witnessing numerous challenges, especially in Russia and Belarus. Many young Somalis, in search of a better life in European nations, are now grappling with severe hardships, notably at the Belarus-Poland border.”
He further detailed the dire circumstances: “The crisis encompasses a wide demographic, including women, children, and young adults. Some Somali women, as a consequence of the severe cold, have faced leg amputations and are currently receiving treatment in Belarusian hospitals.”
Highlighting the situation of those incarcerated, he continued, “About 60 young individuals are imprisoned in Moscow. Without timely intervention, there’s a high likelihood of them being conscripted into the Russian army.”
“These reports underscore the Somali embassy’s lack of effective response in these regions,” the student lamented. He urged the Somali federal government to promptly intervene and support the affected Somali youth, who initially sought refuge and opportunities in Europe.
This crisis not only emphasises the challenges faced by Somali immigrants but also necessitates immediate global attention and intervention to protect the rights and welfare of these vulnerable individuals, entangled in a complex international conflict.
Halqabsi News
